Instant Pot Pasta with Italian Sausage

This Instant Pot Pasta with Italian Sausage is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines savory Italian sausage, marinara sauce, bell peppers, and spinach with penne pasta. The Instant Pot makes this dish quick and convenient, and the pressure cooker method infuses all the ingredients with rich flavors while keeping the pasta tender. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a hearty family dinner.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, this meal comes together in about an hour, making it a fast and simple dinner option.
• One-Pot Meal: This dish cooks all in one pot, minimizing cleanup and making it a convenient option for busy nights.
• Packed with Protein and Fiber: The sausage and pasta provide protein, while the spinach adds fiber, making this meal both satisfying and nutritious.
• Flavorful and Filling: The blend of marinara sauce, Italian sausage, and fresh vegetables creates a hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone.

Essential Ingredients

• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and sausage, providing a rich base for the dish.
• Onion and Bell Peppers: These vegetables add sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Italian-Style Chicken Sausage: The sausage gives the dish a savory and slightly spicy flavor, and using chicken sausage keeps it leaner.
• Garlic: Adds an aromatic depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish.
• Marinara Sauce: The base of the sauce, bringing a rich tomato flavor to the pasta.
• Water: Used to cook the pasta and combine with the sauce to create a flavorful base.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color, nutrients, and a slightly earthy flavor to the dish.
• Penne Pasta: The perfect pasta shape for this dish, holding the sauce and sausage well.
• Basil and Italian Seasoning: These herbs bring classic Italian flavors to the dish.
• Shredded Italian Cheese Blend: Used to finish the dish, melting into the pasta for extra creaminess and flavor.

Preparation Steps

1. Sauté the Vegetables and Sausage: Turn on the Instant Pot and select the Saute function. Add olive oil and allow it to heat. Add the onion and bell peppers, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until lightly browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add marinara sauce, water, spinach, penne pasta, basil, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together to combine.
3. Pressure Cook: Cancel the Saute function. Close and lock the Instant Pot lid. Set to high pressure for 5 minutes and allow 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build.
4. Release Pressure: Once cooking is complete, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully use the quick-release method to release the remaining pressure. Unlock and remove the lid.
5. Stir in Cheese: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded Italian cheese until well combined. Serve with the remaining cheese sprinkled on top.

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: The sausage and pasta provide a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The spinach adds vitamin C, calcium, and iron, while the bell peppers provide additional vitamin C to support immune health.
• Good Source of Fiber: The pasta and spinach are both sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
• Calcium-Rich: The cheese adds calcium, which is important for bone health and proper muscle function.

Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and color.
• Side Salad: Pair with a light salad of mixed greens or arugula to balance the richness of the pasta.
• With Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the finished dish.

Creative Variations

• Use Different Sausage: Swap the Italian chicken sausage for turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a different twist.
• Add More Vegetables: Throw in extra vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes to boost the nutritional value and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes, spicy sausage, or a diced jalapeño for an extra kick of heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Separate the Cheese: If you plan to store leftovers, it’s best to store the cheese separately and add it when reheating to maintain its creaminess.

Pro Tips

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: If you need to, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure everything cooks evenly.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce before pressure cooking and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may want to add a pinch of salt or more Italian seasoning depending on your preferences.
• Check the Pasta: After cooking, check the texture of the pasta. If it’s too firm, simply add a little more water and cook on the stovetop for a few more minutes.
• Use Pre-cooked Sausage: For an even quicker version, you can use pre-cooked Italian sausage to reduce the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While penne pasta is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like rigatoni, farfalle, or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if using a different shape.

Can I make this without the Instant Pot?
Yes! You can cook the sausage, vegetables, and pasta in a large pot on the stovetop. Simply simmer the pasta in the marinara sauce and water mixture, then add the spinach and cheese at the end.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh. Just be sure to thaw it and drain the excess moisture before adding it to the pot.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot, and adjust the liquid accordingly.

This Instant Pot Pasta with Italian Sausage is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s simple to make with the help of your Instant Pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a hearty dish the whole family will love!

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